District proposes Education Career Academy to give juniors and seniors classroom experience and local interview pathway

A district presenter described a proposed Education Career Academy that would give high school juniors and seniors hands‑on experience in local elementary and middle schools. The program mirrors the district’s Medical Career Academy structure but is open to both 11th and 12th graders and awards one credit.

The presentational overview said students accepted into the program would complete 90 hours of combined observation, job shadowing and practicum work with a professional teacher; the program is application‑based and requires students to arrange transportation to assigned partner schools. The presenter described practicum work that includes lesson development and delivery under the mentorship of a professional teacher.

Administrators said the program currently carries no additional cost to the district and would be staffed through the college and career center and existing partners. The district indicated participating students who complete the program successfully would be offered a guaranteed interview with the district when they apply for teaching positions later—“we won't guarantee a job, but we will guarantee an interview,” a board member clarified.

Questions from board members included whether students could select a focus (elementary, middle, special education) and whether union contract issues arise; presenters said the district would try to honor preferences but could not guarantee specific placements, and that the program’s supervised, limited‑duration practicum activities resemble standard student‑teacher placements and do not conflict with contract provisions. The presentation included examples of a current student, Chloe (a senior), who had participated and signed up for an additional semester.